Development of CuidaTEXT: a text message intervention to support Latino dementia family caregivers
AbstractObjectivesTo describe the development of CuidaTEXT: a tailored text message intervention to support Latino dementia family caregivers.MethodsCuidaTEXT is informed by the Stress Process Framework and Social Cognitive Theory. We developed and refined CuidaTEXT using a mixed-method approach that included thematic analysis and descriptive statistics. We followed six user-centered design stages, including the selection of design principles, software vendor collaboration, evidence-based foundation, caregiver and research/clinical advisory board guidance, sketching and prototyping, and usability testing among five Latino caregivers.ResultsCuidaTEXT is a bilingual 6-month long intervention tailored to caregiver needs that includes: 1) 1-3 daily automatic messages (n=244) about logistics, dementia education, self-care, social support, end-of-life, care of the person with dementia, behavioral symptoms and problem-solving strategies; 2) 783 keyword-driven text messages for further help with the above topics; 3) live chat interaction with a coach for further help; 4) a 19-page reference booklet summarizing the purpose and functions of the intervention. CuidaTEXT’s prototype scored 97 out of 100 in the System Usability Scale.ConclusionsCuidaTEXT’s prototype demonstrated high usability among Latino caregivers. CuidaTEXT’s feasibility is ready to be tested.Clinical ImplicationsCuidaTEXT’s usability and its potential for widespread implementation holds promise in supporting Latino caregivers.